Four individuals have pleaded guilty in Kenya to attempting to smuggle hundreds of ants out of the country in what the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has described as a “landmark case” for its focus on lesser-known species.
The case involved the illegal possession and attempted export of giant African harvester ants (Messor cephalotes), a species protected under international biodiversity regulations. According to the KWS, this incident represents the country’s first case of biological resource trafficking involving insects at this scale.
Unconventional Targets in Wildlife Crime
Authorities apprehended the suspects — two Belgian nationals, one Vietnamese citizen, and a Kenyan — during a coordinated and intelligence-led operation, according to KWS. Collectors in Europe and Asia reportedly intended the insects to fulfil their demand for rare ant species kept in formicariums, which are enclosed habitats designed for ant colonies.
“This is Kenya’s first case of bio-piracy on this scale,” said KWS spokesperson Paul Udoto. “It demonstrates a shift in illegal wildlife trade practices.”
According to KWS, the shift in focus from mammals such as elephants and lions to smaller species highlights emerging patterns in wildlife trafficking.
Method of Concealment
Authorities further revealed that someone concealed the insects in custom-modified test tubes and syringes filled with cotton wool. This method would allow the ants to survive for up to two months. They reportedly altered the tubes to reduce visibility and evade detection by security systems.
Photographs released by KWS show hundreds of these containers, each holding two or three ants.
“There was a calculated attempt to bypass security systems,” Udoto said.
High Market Value
The giant African harvester ant can grow up to 20mm, with queens reaching around 25mm. Some UK-based dealers value individual ants of this species at up to £170 ($220), according to reports.
Pat Stanchev, general manager of Best Ants UK, an insect trading platform, said the species is considered visually appealing by collectors, though he does not stock them.
“They’re a large species, which some collectors find attractive,” Stanchev said. “I’m aware that some individuals attempt to import insects illegally, but that’s not something we’re involved in.”
Legal and Ecological Implications
International treaties regulate the trade of protected insects like Messor cephalotes to prevent the unsanctioned removal of native biodiversity. Kenyan authorities say the case reinforces their commitment to enforcing these rules.
“This prosecution sends a strong message that Kenya will enforce compliance,” the KWS said in a statement. “It marks a step forward in addressing non-traditional wildlife crimes.”
The exact number of ants involved is, however, still under review. KWS has indicated it will continue to monitor similar threats and collaborate with global partners to address changes in illegal wildlife trade.
